Tulowitzki may miss remainder of season after groin surgery

Rockies star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, originally expected to be out six or eight weeks after groin surgery in late June, could miss the remainder of the season, people familiar with the situation say.

While Tulowitzki could possibly be ready to play late in the year, the Rockies have vowed not to push it, considering they are a non-contender and he is a foundation player. The club understands it may be a lost year for Tulo.

Tulowitzki had surgery to remove scar tissue from his left groin June 21 after hurting the area while running out a grounder against the Astros on May 30, and feeling it again while playing a rehab game in Triple-A June 13.

Top prospect Josh Rutledge, the second baseman of the future, has been playing shortstop lately in Tulo's absence. Marco Scutaro has done a nice job at second base but is a potential trade candidate, with the Rangers, A's and others having some interest.

Tulo's injury has the Rockies thin on the middle infield, but it's believed the Rockies would still trade Scutaro. So far, interested teams are asking the Rockies to pay down some of Scutaro's salary, however.